Aitken Memorial Fountain

Govan, Glasgow

The drinking fountain at Govan Cross, Glasgow, is known as the Aitken Memorial Fountain. It was originally created in 1884 and is the only surviving example of the decorative cast iron drinking fountains produced by Cruikshanks & Co.’s foundry at the Denny Works in Stirlingshire. The fountain is dedicated to Dr John Aitken, a local doctor who was deeply committed to serving the medical needs of the area's poor and is believed to have died from overwork.

The fountain fell into disrepair over time but was fully restored in 2011 as part of a regeneration effort led by the Govan Cross Townscape Heritage Initiative. The restoration was funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund and Glasgow City Council. It remains a cherished landmark at Govan Cross, symbolizing the area's rich history and community spirit.